The decision to include Israel in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) was made with the understanding that it serves the interests of both the United States and Israel, according to an official statement. This move is not regarded as a favor but as a strategic step to enhance US border security, immigration, and counterterrorism measures, while also promoting legitimate travel and commerce between the two nations.
Israel was required to demonstrate compliance with US standards by September 30, and if successful, it would be seen as a positive development for the Israeli government, particularly Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration. Relations between Israel and the US have faced tensions over issues such as judicial reforms and Palestinian policies. Israel's inclusion in the Visa Waiver Program was hailed as a diplomatic achievement and a positive development for Israeli citizens. The US State Department spokesperson noted that a final financial decision regarding Israel's candidacy has not been reached and will be determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Secretary of State in the coming days. US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas welcomed Israel's accession to the program, emphasizing that it would strengthen security, economic ties, and people-to-people connections between the two countries. Israel recently eased access for Palestinian Americans traveling through its borders to and from the West Bank. While estimates of the Palestinian American population in the West Bank vary, this move aimed to facilitate their travel. Approximately 45,000 to 60,000 Palestinian Americans are believed to reside in the West Bank, according to a US official's estimates, although an Israeli official provided a lower figure, stating that of the 70,000 to 90,000 Palestinian Americans worldwide, 15,000 to 20,000 live in the West Bank.
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